Art at The Vineyard at Stockcross

Sir Peter Michael is an enthusiastic patron of the arts, believing that music, painting and sculpture enrich the world we live in. Visitors to The Vineyard can relax and enjoy fine wine and exquisite food whilst surrounded by original pieces of art collectively known as The Michael Collection.

Upon arriving at The Vineyard guests are greeted by breathtaking sculpture including the spine, by Diane Maclean, which stands elegantly capturing the changing light of day. Over looked by the terrace and restaurant is the smooth, glassy pool with majestic dancing flames, Fire and Water by William Pye, commissioned by Sir Peter to demonstrate how two opposing forces in nature can be combined to create a thing of beauty.

Housed within the walls of The Vineyard are numerous original paintings and sketches by artists including Henry Martin, Ronald Searle, Boris Smirnoff and Doris Zinkeisen. Pieces of particular note include Bucolique by Henry Martin situated in the restaurant at The Vineyard at Stockcross, one of a series of six paintings by the artist depicting rural life at a vineyard. Pieces by Boris Smirnoff adorn many of the walls at The Vineyard. His paintings of nudes are most frequently found in the most intimate spaces of the hotel, within the suites. Some of his portraits of famous people can be found within the public areas of the hotel.

What makes the collection of Boris Smirnoff’s work of particular note is that there is such a large collection of his work at The Vineyard. This is due to Sir Peter’s father, a personal friend of Boris Smirnoff, purchasing the entire studio collection after the artist’s death in 1976.

The art collection as a whole is diverse in character, meaning that the collection has something for everyone. It is true to say that the sculptures are more abstract in nature than the paintings and drawings, however, the collection sits wonderfully together providing many focal points and points for discussion.